The Tripura Renewable Energy Development Agency has earned a silver medal for its outstanding national welfare work. This recognition comes for implementing solar-powered microgrid projects in remote tribal regions of northeast India.
Bringing Light to Challenging Terrain
The award highlights TREDA's significant impact in the difficult and hilly tribal areas of the northeast. Traditional electricity infrastructure often proves unfeasible in these locations.
For many years, northeast communities have struggled with irregular or completely absent power supplies. This lack of reliable electricity has negatively affected education, healthcare, livelihoods, and overall quality of life.
Solar Solutions Through Government Collaboration
Working under the PM-DEVINE scheme, TREDA collaborated with both central and state governments. Together they successfully brought electricity to 274 remote tribal villages.
The agency installed solar microgrids with capacities ranging from 2 kW to 25 kW. In total, 274 microgrids now operate with a combined capacity of 3 MW.
Tangible Benefits for Tribal Communities
These installations benefit 9,762 households across 247 remote tribal habitations. The entire project cost approximately Rs 81.02 crore.
Each beneficiary household received four LED lights and a mobile charging socket. Additionally, solar-powered streetlights now illuminate village roads and public spaces.
Overcoming Infrastructure Challenges
Grid extension to these remote locations has been nearly impossible. Even areas with partial grid access have suffered frequent power cuts, particularly during monsoon and pre-monsoon seasons.
The solar microgrid approach provides a practical alternative where traditional electricity infrastructure cannot reach. This solution ensures consistent power regardless of weather conditions or geographical barriers.
